Why Your Office Space Should Be in NoMa, According to the CEO of NoMa BID

Once dismissed as “soulless”, NoMa has transformed into one of DC’s most vibrant and desirable neighborhoods. According to Maura Brophy, President and CEO of the NoMa Business Improvement District (BID), the area’s mix of accessibility, lifestyle, and community makes it a prime choice for employers seeking office space in Washington, DC.

Why Businesses Belong in NoMa

The ultimate appeal of leasing or buying office space in NoMa is the talent that the neighborhood attracts. From residents enjoying the itinerary of neighborhood events to commuters taking advantage of bike accessibility, people are encouraged to be in NoMa and in the office. Brophy explains,“What NoMa has to offer that's unique is that it's a place where talent wants to be. They can attract that talent because it's likely that a lot of people who work for them will want to live in the neighborhood. It's also a place where even if you don't live in the neighborhood, you can get here easily. So it removes a huge barrier to people coming to the office.”

Transportation & Connectivity

NoMa was intentionally developed around local transit, resulting in one of the easiest neighborhoods in D.C. to reach. With its own Metro stop, quick access to Union Station, and miles of new bike lanes, it’s simple for employees to commute from anywhere in the region. A new Metro entrance, already approved for construction, will make it even more convenient. Brophy notes that this accessibility is a big reason why major employers, from federal agencies to creative firms, have made NoMa their home.

Restaurants, Retail & Lifestyle

From the flagship REI store to a growing mix of restaurants, breweries, and markets, NoMa’s retail and dining scene signals vitality. “Retail follows roofs, which really means it follows people,” Brophy notes. “Restaurants like to be around other restaurants, and NoMa is the perfect kind of place where they’re collectively attracting people rather than competing with each other.” Add in public art displays, events like the weekly farmers market, and community festivals, and you have a neighborhood that’s lively well beyond office hours.

A Neighborhood with Momentum

Though 75% built out, NoMa continues to evolve with new residential and mixed-use projects under construction, and vacant lots waiting to be filled. For Maura, construction is a sign of a thriving neighborhood: “We love to see construction. It’s a good thing for the neighborhood. We’ll live through that and then benefit from the new buildings, the new people that come and occupy them.”

The Takeaway for Tenants

For businesses, NoMa offers more than office space. It provides a built-in advantage for attracting talent and bringing employees back to the office. With unmatched accessibility, a thriving food and retail scene, and a strong sense of community, NoMa has established itself as one of the most desirable office markets in Washington, DC.

Cresa helps tenants evaluate neighborhoods like NoMa and secure the office space that best aligns with their people, culture, and goals. If you’re considering a move or exploring your options, connect with our team to learn how we can help you find the right fit in NoMa or across the Washington DC-metro area.